August 24

Introduction

1 Samuel 2:1–11: Today’s reading is Hannah’s prayer upon offering Samuel as a servant to the LORD. She offers God praise and thanksgiving, celebrating the ways in which God offers safety, sustenance, and care.

Today’s Key Verse: 1 Samuel 2:1a

Hannah prayed: “The LORD has filled my heart with joy; how happy I am because of what he has done!”

Reflect

Some scholars believe that parts of this prayer may have been taken from even older prayers used to give thanks after receiving God’s help. The prayer celebrates God’s power to change human situations from bad to good to help those in need. According to Hannah’s prayer, what are some of the ways God helps people? Do any themes surprise you? Does it sound familiar to you? (The Virgin Mary adapts Hannah’s song a thousand years later in Luke 1:46–55.) When have you witnessed God acting in similar ways today?

Pray

Lord God, you fill my heart with joy. How happy I am because of your presence in my life. You alone are God and I thank and praise you for your steadfast love and care. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

1 Samuel 3:1–21: The LORD appears to Samuel.